Siemens to deliver free ICE 3 train in goodwill gesture

Siemens has said it will be supplying one free new ICE 3 high-speed train to German operator Deutsche Bahn (DB) to make up for a lengthy delay in the order.

The manufacturer has agreed to supply a 17th Class 407 trainset, worth approximately €33 million, free of charge as compensation for a two-year delay in bringing the train into operation.

Although DB placed an original order for 15 ICE 3 trainsets in 2008, a drawn out certification process has meant that the new fleet won’t start transporting passengers between Cologne and Frankfurt until April.

Siemens has already added a 16th train to the 2008 order after one of the older ICE 3 fleet was damaged in an accident.

Testing is still underway in France and Belgium to gain approval for cross-border operation.

With thanks to the rail engineer




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